Gary McAllister was sacked by Leeds United in December 2008. Photograph: Christopher Thomond

Portsmouth have failed to agree a deal for Gary McAllister to join them as assistant manager.

The former Scotland midfielder, who has managed Coventry City and Leeds United, held talks this morning over the position, which has been vacant since Brian Kidd joined Manchester City in the summer. No agreement was reached, leaving Pompey still searching for a No 2 to their manager, Paul Hart.

Hart said: "We couldn't agree anything. He was the man I wanted so it's disappointing."

Portsmouth have lost their first seven matches in the Premier League this season, the worst start in the top flight for 79 years.